Black History Month 2026 Events
Join us throughout October as we mark Black History Month 2026, celebrating the theme "Honouring Our Communities". This year's programme brings together staff, service users, carers, community organisations and partners to celebrate Black history, heritage and culture, while exploring the importance of community, mental health and wellbeing.
Poetry Workshop with Matthew McKenzie
Tuesday 13 October 2026 | 10am to 12pm
Ignition Brewery, The Sydenham Centre, 44A Sydenham Road, London SE26 5QF
Hosted by Imago's Ignition Brewery Peer Support Group, this interactive poetry workshop will be led by acclaimed poet and facilitator Matthew McKenzie. The session offers an opportunity to explore creativity, self-expression and storytelling through poetry in a welcoming community setting.
Find out more and book your place
Voices & Verses: Carers Poetry Event
Tuesday 20 October 2026 | 2pm to 5pm
Cygnet Churchill, Lambeth
Matthew McKenzie will host this special event for unpaid mental health carers, creating a space to share poetry, lived experiences and personal stories. The event will celebrate diverse voices and perspectives while encouraging connection, creativity and reflection.
Find out more and book your place
Black History Month Celebration 2026
Thursday 22 October 2026 | 5:30pm to 8:30pm
The Ritzy, Brixton, Coldharbour Lane, London SW2 1JG
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and Certitude are delighted to invite colleagues, community leaders, sector partners and local changemakers to a special Black History Month celebration.
This year's theme, "Honouring Our Communities", recognises the individuals, networks and organisations whose leadership, resilience, care and contributions continue to strengthen Black communities across the UK.
The evening will provide an opportunity to:
Reflect on the significance of this year's theme.
Share learning from anti-racism and equity initiatives across South London.
Hear from leaders and advocates working to advance racial equity, diversity and inclusion in mental health services.
Take part in meaningful conversations and collective learning.
Celebrate the achievements, identity and strength of Black communities.
We look forward to bringing people together for an evening of reflection, inspiration and community.
National Ethnic Mental Health Carers Forum
Friday 30 October 2026 | From 10:30am
The National Ethnic Mental Health Carers Forum provides a platform for ethnic mental health carers to share experiences, discuss challenges and influence the development of services. The forum offers an opportunity to connect with others, amplify carers' voices and help shape future support and provision.